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A Pixel-Perfect Rendition of Nostalgia Rendered as Lo-Res Sneakers

08.03.23 | By
A Pixel-Perfect Rendition of Nostalgia Rendered as Lo-Res Sneakers

These are weird and occasionally wonderful times when it comes to footwear, especially if you’re partial to expressing yourself through your shoes. Conspicuous creations like MSCHF’s big red Astro Boy boots, Dad sneakers and clunky Crocs, and exploratory sneakers constructed from recycled materials all continue to catch the public’s eye and court the mainstream. Now if you’re someone who pines for the low-resolution nostalgia of pixel art, the Pixel Rider might be for you.

Black gloved hands holding up Pixel Rider foam sneakers at an angle with toebox up.

The pixel-art inspired silhouette appears carved right out from the digital domain.

Designed by Andrew Kostman, these Minecrafted kicks are imagined as a means to “rediscover the purity of childhood,” appealing to retro-gamers, fashionistas, and anyone who wants the attention.

Side profile view of the Pixel Rider in Milky Way (off-white) against white background.

Side profile view of the Pixel Rider in Bubblegum (light pink) against white background.

Side profile view of the Pixel Rider in Vulcan (black) against white background.

The Pixel Rider is available in three color options: Vulcan (black), Bubble Gum (pink), and Milky Way (white).

Despite their large size, Kostman Pixel Riders are lighter than a typical sneaker of comparable size. Made with XL EXTRALIGHT technology, the whimsical foam slip-ons are supposedly three times lighter than classic EVA Foam, yet retain a level of durability and comfort expected for a shoe designed to be actually worn (though one must wonder whether the small side ports are enough to prevent swamp feet if worn out on a hot summer day).

Overhead top view of a pair of Vulcan (black) Pixel Rider sneakers against white background showing top and sole.

Heel detail view of Milky Way (off-white) Pixel Rider sneaker against white background.

Available in three colors, Vulcan, Bubble Gum, and Milky Way, Kostman Pixel Riders kicks will set you back about $264, and you’ll have to wait till Christmas for your order to ship after pre-ordering.

Gregory Han is a Senior Editor at Design Milk. A Los Angeles native with a profound love and curiosity for design, hiking, tide pools, and road trips, a selection of his adventures and musings can be found at gregoryhan.com.